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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I couldn’t stay still because I was suddenly feeling such strong frequent contractions. They started up out of nowhere about 2 hours before baby was born!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Staying grounded and keeping focused inside during transition. Having my husband provide counter pressure on my sacrum changed it from “I think I may die” to “I can do this - just focus and push the pressure into his hand”
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Writing out affirmations and reading them throughout the day then really meditating on them at night. It really got me well into a good relaxed mindset about the birth.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quick and easy it was for me! I was so focused and relaxed about it I didn’t even know how far along I was nor did I care that the midwives still hadn’t arrived. I thought I was still in transition when the pressure got very intense when really - it was baby’s head coming out!
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Don’t doubt yourself and don’t think of “pain”. If you expect it, it will come. Focus on your baby’s journey - pressure, cramping, pushing baby along. It can be intense but there is relief in between. If you breathe you will stay in the moment and not miss those breaks.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
A cold wet rag on my forehead and on my lower back/butt together with counter pressure on my sacrum. I was also focusing on breathing deeply and not thinking about or paying attention to anything else during contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Kneeling over the back of my couch
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Like I was already holding him my whole life. I expected to be surprised or shocked but instead it felt so right and normal.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Don’t doubt yourself and don’t think of “pain”. If you expect it, it will come. Focus on your baby’s journey - pressure, cramping, pushing baby along. It can be intense but there is relief in between. If you breathe you will stay in the moment and not miss those breaks.
